2012 Commencement

Gonzaga's 2012 commencement is in the record books - a memorable weekend of honors, achievement and celebration. Approximately 2,220 undergraduate, graduate and law degrees were awarded - the highest number ever - to an exceptional class of students.

The University was privileged to welcome Archbishop Emeritus Desmond Tutu who delivered an inspiring address at the Senior Commencement. He was presented an honorary Doctor of Laws by Gonzaga President Thayne McCulloh and Chairman of the Board of Trustees John Luger. Very Rev. Patrick J. Lee, S.J., provincial of the Oregon Province of the Society of Jesus, offered the benediction.

Gonzaga alumna and Washington state Supreme Court Justice Debra Stephens (undergraduate '87, Law School '93) delivered the keynote address at the Law Commencement. John E. Clute, former Gonzaga Law School dean and GU Law alumnus ('60), was posthumously honored with the 2012 Gonzaga Law Medal.

People of all faiths were welcomed at the Baccalaureate Mass. Most Rev. Blase Cupich, Bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Spokane, was the principal celebrant. Members of Gonzaga's Jesuit community attended, and Father Hightower delivered the homily.

ROTC Commissioning ceremonies for Gonzaga and Whitworth students were held in St. Aloysius Church. Gonzaga's Social Justice Missioning Ceremony took place in the Student Chapel. Special celebrations and receptions were also held at Bozarth Mansion, Martin Centre and Cataldo Hall.

Gonzaga University's gratitude goes to all the students, families, friends, faculty, staff and community members who shared in this exceptional celebration. Best wishes to all the graduates!